Bangladesh achieved a historic 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan with a six-wicket victory on the fifth afternoon in Rawalpindi. Chasing 185, Bangladesh’s batters delivered crucial contributions, leading to their third-highest successful chase in Test cricket. Zakir Hasan set the tone with 40 runs, while Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque added steady 30s. The experienced duo of Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan then guided the team home, igniting celebrations in the Bangladesh camp. This overseas Test win was a rare feat for Bangladesh, marking only their fourth win in 20 overseas Tests over the last seven years and just their third series victory abroad.
Pakistan’s Home Struggles Continue
Pakistan’s struggles at home continued, extending their winless streak to ten Tests. Since their victory against South Africa in February 2021, Pakistan has endured four draws and six losses, including series defeats to Australia, England, and now Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s Chase in the Second Session
Heading into the second session, Bangladesh needed 63 runs with eight wickets in hand. Shanto displayed intent with reverse sweeps and a boundary through backward point but fell to a soft dismissal, bunting a straight delivery from Salman Agha to short leg. Mominul, after a cautious start, became more aggressive, cutting Agha and edging Mir Hamza for boundaries. However, he mistimed a shot off Abrar Ahmed, leading to his dismissal. Despite this, Mushfiqur and Shakib ensured no further setbacks, playing patiently and inching towards the target. Shakib’s straight six off Abrar and a subsequent four through covers sealed the victory, propelling Bangladesh to fourth place in the World Test Championship standings.
Early Morning Struggles for Bangladesh
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh resumed at 42 for no loss. Although Shadman Islam began with a crisp square cut, Pakistan’s bowlers dominated the initial phase. Zakir Hasan survived an early scare but was soon bowled by Hamza. Shadman, after a brief struggle, was caught driving loosely off Khurram Shahzad. Despite these early losses, Shanto and Mominul’s partnership steadied the innings, quashing Pakistan’s hopes of a comeback. Pakistan’s bowlers drew occasional edges, but Bangladesh’s batters managed to hold on, ultimately securing a memorable win in front of a sparse Rawalpindi crowd.
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